Seeking Teachers to Enrich Classrooms with History, Storytelling, and Ecology

The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) invites K-12 educators across the United States to apply for the Teaching Environmental Humanities through Landscape Architecture program.

The program will host two immersive, week-long workshops in Washington, D.C., during the summer of 2025. Educators will explore the intersection of history, storytelling, and ecological awareness through expert-led sessions, hands-on design experiences, and visits to urban landscapes and cultural landmarks.

This grant-funded initiative, supported by the National Endowment for the Humanities, offers an unparalleled opportunity for teachers to transform their classrooms and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.

"This program empowers teachers to transform their classrooms by connecting students to the rich histories and environmental stories that surround them," said Lisa Jennings, Senior Manager of ASLA's Career Discovery and Diversity Program. "Educators will leave inspired and prepared to make a lasting impact on their students."

Key benefits for teachers and their students include:

• Innovative curriculum development where teachers will gain strategies to incorporate sustainability, cultural heritage, and environmental ethics into humanities education.
• Hands-on learning experiences via exploring iconic sites like the National World War I Memorial and Howard University to understand the role of landscape architecture in shaping history and culture.
• Insights into the power of landscape architecture all around us to inspire students to see the world through a lens of history, ecology, and design, fostering a deeper appreciation for their communities and environments.

Participating teachers will leave equipped with the tools to integrate environmental humanities into their curricula, empowering students to understand and appreciate the stories and values embedded in the landscapes around them.

Apply by March 5
Applications are open now through March 5, 2025, with full funding provided for travel, accommodations, and program participation.

The application process is straightforward and open to K-12 educators interested in integrating landscape architecture and humanities into their teaching. Applicants will need to complete a short online form, providing information about their teaching background and a brief statement of interest. Selections will be based on demonstrated enthusiasm for place-based education and a commitment to incorporating workshop insights into their curricula. Key dates, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines are available on the workshop website, ensuring applicants have all the information needed to join this unique educational experience.

To learn more and apply, visit https://humanities.asla.org. Questions about the program or applications? Contact [email protected].